Bears hire renowned martial arts expert to work with all positions

The Bears hired Joe Kim, a prominent martial arts expert with years of NFL coaching experience, as their skill development coach, a source confirmed Tuesday night. Kim has worked with eight NFL teams as a pass rush consultant or specialist, most recently with the the Kansas City Chiefs from 2010-12, and also with Penn State.

The Bears hired Joe Kim, a prominent martial arts expert with years of NFL coaching experience, as their skill development coach, a source confirmed Tuesday night.

Kim has worked with eight NFL teams as a pass rush consultant or specialist, most recently with the the Kansas City Chiefs from 2010-12, and also with Penn State.

Bears general manager Phil Emery became familiar with Kim’s work in Kansas City when he was the Chiefs’ director of college scouting.

Kim’s work won’t be limited to pass rushing with the Bears. Instead, a source said he’ll work with all positions on the Bears with the goal of improving their hand work when blocking or escaping blocks.

According to Kim’s website for his martial arts school, Kim, a Grandmaster, is a 7th Dan Black Belt who is recognized by the World Taekwondo Federation, Kukkiwon and USA Taekwondo.

Kim’s NFL work dates back to 1992 when he was hired by Bill Belichick, who was the head coach of the Cleveland Browns at the time. Kim also has worked closely with Chiefs outside linebacker Tamba Hali. Hali had 35.5 sacks in the three seasons Kim consulted in Kansas City.